Shed the pounds and raise cash for charity (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

Shed the pounds and raise cash for charity

THE Standard is calling on readers to lose weight and raise funds for Cirencester Hospital by joining the Ten Ton Challenge.

The official launch in Cirencester town centre on Saturday saw men and women queuing up to register their desired weight loss.

The idea is that for every 1lb lost £1 will be raised in a mass effort to reach the £22,400 target, equalling ten tons.

The funds will go towards a £120,000 digital x-ray machine for the hospital.

Long-time hospital supporter Lady Apsley and Cirencester businessman Alastair Goulty have taken up the challenge.

They were seen with a pink elephant in Market Place during the launch, striving to highlight the cause.

Alastair, 32, of Re/Max Property, said: "A group of us went into shops to hand out fliers and stickers.

"People of all ages have been filling in the forms wanting to lose weight ranging from 10lb to three stone.

"We are trying to encourage more men. I've lost 22lb since I started.

"The idea for the challenge was born because I wanted to lose weight for the Cirencester Hospital League of Friends Fashion Show later this year.

"I thought I was too fat and didn't want to ponce around in my underwear.

"I feel fantastic now. I've got so much more energy."

Alastair, who lives in Tetbury, wants to lose five stone to hit his personal target of 16-and-a-half-stone.

Slimming World gives him advice each week and he exercises with a personal trainer.

Anybody who registers before July 7 will be able to take advantage of a free prize draw for a case of champagne donated by Lady Apsley.

Forms can be found on the website www.tentonchallenge.co.uk or by visiting the Re/Max offices.

The firm will also have a stall at The Cotswold Show and Country Fair on Saturday.